Storm apologize after co-owner berates teen girls for support of Cunningham

The Seattle Storm has apologized after a co-owner verbally berated two teenage girls for holding signs supporting WNBA player Sophie Cunningham. The incident occurred during a home game against the Indiana Fever. Minority co-owner Celeste Keaton reportedly used expletives towards the girls, calling them "f—ing insane." The girls' signs thanked Cunningham for speaking up for the protection of women's sports. The Storm's majority owner, Ginny Gilder, stated that the team apologizes for the incident and is committed to creating an inclusive environment for all fans. Reports also indicate that some Seattle players made thumbs-down gestures, and other fans booed the girls.

The Seattle Storm has apologized for an exchange between one of its co-owners and two fans during a game against the Indiana Fever on Tuesday. The team did not specify the co-owner involved or the nature of the comments made. Majority owner Ginny Gilder stated that the organization apologizes for the incident and is committed to creating an inclusive environment where all fans feel welcome and respected. The incident occurred on a night that also saw a demonstration outside the arena supporting Indiana Fever guard Sophie Cunningham and a ballot initiative concerning transgender athletes in Washington schools. Cunningham had previously voiced support for barring transgender girls and women from participating in girls' and women's sports.

Indiana Fever players Sophie Cunningham and Caitlin Clark were unavailable for postgame interviews following their team's 105-95 victory over the Seattle Storm. This decision came after a rally outside the arena in support of Cunningham's recent comments regarding transgender athletes and the promotion of Washington state initiatives that would bar transgender students from girls' athletics. Cunningham was booed by Storm fans during the game. The Fever organization stated they had no prior knowledge of the demonstration and their focus is on winning games. Storm head coach Sonia Raman commented that the arena aimed to ensure a welcoming environment for all attendees.